The questions listed below are simply suggestions for guiding and structuring your conversation. You needn’t feel compelled to use the list or to cover all of the questions. Don’t hesitate to consider other, better questions that may come up during your conversation.

Which integrated library system (ILS) does your library currently use? Was it chosen specifically by your library or was it selected by a consortium?

What are some of the things that your current ILS does that you simply couldn’t live without? What are some of the things that annoy you about your current ILS?

What is missing from your current system? What additional features would make your job easier? (Don’t forget that creativity is welcome here!)

Do you foresee an end-of-life for your current ILS? How will you know when it’s time to find a new system?

What is your tolerance for risk in selecting or developing your next ILS? Are you willing to try an open source product or a mixture of modules from various vendors? What are some advantages/disadvantages to these models?

Have you started thinking about how RDA will work within your current ILS? Do you plan to prepare in any way, or are you waiting for the results for the upcoming test period?

What features are your users looking for when they search the OPAC? How might a next gen system make their lives easier?